The prospect of a new transatlantic service from Shannon Airport has moved a step closer.
Norwegian International Airlines has been given preliminary permission to operate services from Ireland to the US.
Norwegian International Airlines has deals in place to fly from Shannon and Cork to Boston.
The carrier has been seeking a licence from the US Department of Transportation for a number of months, much longer than in most other similar cases.
Now, after intense lobbying which saw the matter raised by with President Obama by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, US authorities have given preliminary approval for permits for the airline.
A 21-day period for final submissions is now open, and a final decision will then be made the following week.
Shannon began discussions with Norweigian on the new service in 2014, and previously it has been understood that the new flights to Boston could begin shortly after Norweigian secures the final go-ahead.
In a statement, a Shannon Airport spokesperson says they're hopeful of realising an "excellent opportunity" to strengthen transatlantic operations.
The decision has also been welcomed by Transport Minister Paschal Donohue.
